Scope and Coverage
- Applies to RSOs accredited to provide statutory certification services for Philippine-registered ships on international voyages.
- Includes verification and certification of ships to ensure compliance with SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code.
Definitions
- Administrator: Head of the Office for Transportation Security (OTS).
- ISPS Code: The International Code for the Security of Ships and Port Facilities.
- OTS: The designated Philippine agency responsible for transportation security and implementing SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and ISPS Code.
- Recognized Security Organization (RSO): An organization possessing appropriate maritime security qualifications authorized by OTS to perform security-related functions.
- Ship: Philippine-registered vessels engaged in international voyages covered by this Circular.
- Ship Security Plan (SSP): Document outlining measures to protect persons, cargo, and the ship against security incidents.
Accreditation Guidelines
- RSOs must be duly registered entities with the SEC or relevant trade offices; foreign RSOs may apply if authorized to do business locally and appoint a Resident Agent (RA) backed by a performance bond of Php500,000 during appointment tenure.
- RSOs must demonstrate organizational capability and effectiveness for delegated duties.
- A formal accreditation appointment must specify:
- Scope and duration
- Points of contact for OTS and RSO
- Communication and oversight procedures
- Reporting and assessment methods
- Actions upon non-compliance or other state-imposed measures
- Data submission to aid OTS in approving SSPs
- Laws, policies and instruments provided to RSOs
- Records and reporting requirements including capability changes
- Processes for addressing performance issues
- RSOs are subject to audit and oversight by OTS, including inspections of port facilities and ships.
- International RSOs must maintain procedures in English and allow OTS participation in procedural development.
Required Competencies and Capabilities of RSOs
- Expertise in maritime security and relevant operations.
- Ability to assess and minimize security risks at sea and port facilities.
- Maintain and enhance personnel expertise and trustworthiness.
- Prevent unauthorized disclosure of security-sensitive information.
- Knowledge of SOLAS Chapter XI-2, ISPS Code, and related national/international laws.
- Awareness of current security threats, detection of weapons and hazardous materials.
- Understanding behavioral patterns and security circumvention techniques.
- Proficiency with security and surveillance equipment capabilities and limits.
Documentation for Accreditation
- Submission of company profile and capability statements per SOLAS XI-2 and ISPS Code.
- Organizational structure and profiles of directors, including training of maritime security auditors.
- Company policies, objectives, code of ethics, and relevant documents.
- Appointment details of the bonded Resident Agent.
Validity and Effectivity
- Accreditation certificate is valid for five years.
- The Circular took effect on November 15, 2013, in Pasay City, Philippines.